They sat in easy-chairs almost opposite to one another, and Duncombe found the other's scrutiny almost embarrassing.
"You speak French, perhaps--yes ?" the young man asked at length.
"Yes! I speak French," Duncombe admitted.
"Then listen to me," the Vicomte said slowly.

"I speak as one man of honor to another.

Do not play cards in this club!" "Not play cards?
Why not ?" Duncombe asked, amazed.
"You can take my advice or leave it," the Vicomte answered calmly.

"I have no explanation to offer you.

If you chose to repeat my remark you would place me in an exceedingly awkward position.